9 Common Commercial Roofing Problems & Solutions | LA Roofing

9 Common Commercial Roofing Problems & Solutions | LA Roofing

May 22, 2024

Depending on the type of commercial roofing you installed, you may anticipate your investment to last between 10 and 40 years.

It's worth remembering that the life expectancy mentioned in your roofing literature might vary dramatically depending on a variety of circumstances.

The roof's care and maintenance, usage and abuse, installation and design quality, and even the weather will all have an impact.

If you haven't examined your property's roof lately, here are a few of the commercial roofing issues to look for and their possible solutions.

9 Frequent Commercial Roofing Problems Requiring Immediate Attention

Here are a few prevalent commercial roofing problems that all of you must be aware of to allow you to take proactive steps and prevent harm to your facility.

1. Substandard installation

Many roofing issues arise from the start owing to inadequate installation.

This is why it is critical to engage with a commercial roofing company that has expertise in commercial structures.

It's also a good idea to ensure that the professional you've chosen uses high-quality roofing materials from the start. This will prevent the need for a repair or a complete roof replacement in the future.

2. Roof Leaks

Leaking roofs are one of the most typical commercial roofing issues. Roof age, weathering, and damage to the roofing membrane are all potential causes of leaks.

To fix a leaky roof, first locate the source of the leak. Look for water stains on the ceiling or walls, then follow the water's course to the source.

Once you've discovered the source, repair the leak or replace the damaged roof section.

3. Roof Punctures

Roof punctures are among the most common commercial roofing problems, frequently caused by foot activity, falling debris, or HVAC equipment. If left unchecked, punctures can cause leaks and damage to the roof.

To repair roof punctures, either patch the hole with roofing cement or replace the damaged part of the roof.

4. Flashing Issues

Your room flashing will diminish gradually over time. This occurs for a variety of reasons like thermal expansion, which causes the material to distort and move, as well as an accumulation of faults and penetrations, which causes the flashing to fail.

As a result, remember that the flashing will almost certainly need to be updated at some time.

However, the timing will vary depending on the type of building, the weather events it encounters, and the age of the flashing.

5. Tenting And Blow Offs

Certain commercial roofs, particularly single-ply constructions, are prone to tenting and blowing off.

If the roof material does not attach to the substrate, the wind might cause the roof to billow or fly off.

This occurs when the flowing wind exerts suction pressure on the surface of your roof. If your roof is not robust enough, the wind may entirely remove certain materials.

6. Surface Erosion

Some types of roofs may show symptoms of weather-driven surface erosion over time. This might include cracks, discoloration, blistering, or other flaws.

In certain circumstances, if the damage was caused by a severe storm, you may be able to repair it through an insurance restoration project.

7. Roof Shrinkage

Roof shrinkage is caused when the roofing material shrinks and pushes away from the roof's edges or penetrations.

This might be due to age, weathering, or faulty installation. Shrinkage can cause fractures, leaks, and roof damage.

To repair the roof shrinking, replace the affected area with fresh material.

8. Poor Drainage

Improper installation or blockage of your roof's drainage system due to debris or other obstacles might cause water to accumulate on the surface.

To protect your structure from the damaging impacts of water infiltration, ensure that your roof's drainage system is well-designed, routinely maintained, and clear of obstructions.

To minimize potential drainage concerns, it is critical to routinely clear your gutters and ensure that no debris or obstacles impede the smooth flow of water.

9. UV Damage

The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays may cause extensive damage to your roof over time. UV damage can cause cracking, warping, or even full roof failure.

To successfully prevent UV damage, consider using a reflective roof surface that can deflect damaging UV rays.

This preventive strategy not only protects your property's structural integrity but also improves energy efficiency and reduces long-term costs.


Your building's roofing is crucial for protecting your company and valuables from the weather. It is critical to keep it in peak shape to ensure its longevity and efficacy.

To address and prevent the most common or even not-so-common commercial roofing problem, LA Roofing Materials will be at your rescue.

We not only ensure the correct installation of your commercial roof but also its appropriate maintenance, thereby offering peace of mind.